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Academic Year 2005/2006

Philosophy of Religion
PHIL 282 SP

In this course we will subject the concept of ¿God¿ to philosophical analysis, examining both historical and contemporary work. Among the topics we will cover: arguments for theism and atheism; the objections raised to them, and replies to these objections; the divine attributes¿omnipotence, omniscience, benevolence, perfection, simplicity, and so on¿and the puzzles arising from them; the problems of reconciling God and His attributes with the existence of evils, or with our free will, or with scientific explanations; the problem of understanding the causal relationship between God and the world; the nature of miracles; and the question whether believe in God without evidence may be rational. In short, we will examine whether it¿s possible to develop a coherent and satisfying concept of ¿God.¿

MAJOR READINGS

We will read a variety of articles, both historical and contemporary, from figures such as Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Suarez, Descartes, Mackie, Pike, Plantinga, Adams, etc.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

There will be a variety of quizzes and paper-writing assignments.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Prerequisite of at least one course (and preferable two) in philosophy. Some preference will be given to philosophy majors.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: HA PHIL    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006

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